The boots on my X-Vert won't stay in place, so they are really not doing their job. So I'm thinking of just taking them off, but if I do, I would like to put seals that are up to the job. I have know idea of the quality of the seals that are currently installed.

I have owned three Xverts over the past few years. The first thing I did was take the boots off. Did not cause any problems what so ever. You can upgrade to Manitou's Evil Genius seals if you want. With or without boots you should service your fork atleast once a year.